Wise Woman Recap, Plot, Synopsis

Wise Woman Synopsis

Xue Wan'er, who pursues free love, is not tolerated by her family. She is deceived and manipulated by her elder sister.

After a rebirth, she engages in a battle of wits with her enemies and struggles against feudal and conservative ethics.

After numerous twists and turns, she regains her lost love and successfully recovers everything that belongs to her, ushering in a brand new life.

Wise Woman Recap

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Xue Waner, a common-born girl, has always sought a marriage based on freedom, but her family considers it a shameful act. As Xue Waner watches her relatives and elders constantly reproaching her, she firmly believes that being unmarried does not constitute the crime of illicit affairs, as they accuse, and certainly not one worthy of being beaten to death with a stick. Xue Lingyi has returned, and in a moment, everyone hurriedly goes to welcome him. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Xue Waner loosens the ropes when the family members go out and attempts to escape, even setting ablaze the ancestral hall.

While the family surrounds Xue Lingyi, they secretly take him to a room and inform him about the formula for giving birth to a son that has been discovered. Xue Waner is hiding under the bed in this room, listening carefully to their conspiracy. The head of the Xue family proudly tells Xue Lingyi that this formula, sought by the entire family for many years, is intended to help him establish a foothold in the Rong family residence. After these people leave, Xue Lingyi, feeling they are foolish and clumsy, discovers someone hidden under the bed and tries to force them out.

Xue Waner calls out to Xue Lingyi, who discovers that Xue Waner is already pregnant. Thinking of her husband's idea of having a child through surrogacy, Xue Lingyi sees this as an opportunity presented by fate. Pretending to be genuinely concerned about Xue Waner, Xue Lingyi expresses sympathy. Touched by her sister's apparent care, Xue Waner agrees without much thought when her sister says she wants to go to the capital.

Unaware of Xue Lingyi's hidden agenda, Xue Waner suddenly finds herself embraced by a man. Rong Xiu, knowing Xue Waner's identity, harbors ulterior motives. Feeling that he may not be able to return, Zhao Yan makes a determined effort to engage the enemy.

Xue Waner is experiencing intense pain and torment. A month later, she contemplates using a knife to end things with Rong Xiu. Rong Xiu discovers her intentions, and Xue Lingyi takes advantage of the situation to pretend to stop her sister, hoping to calm things down. Learning that she is pregnant, Xue Waner wants to get rid of the child, but Xue Lingyi, exploiting her emotions, tries to persuade her to keep the baby. In a dream, Xue Waner sees Zhao Yan and wakes up to find herself in labor. Xue Lingyi is ecstatic when he learns that Xue Waner has given birth to a son for the Rong family. Rong Xiu is also delighted.

The matriarch of the Rong family is overjoyed that Xue Lingyi has taken Xue Waner as a concubine and has borne a son. Xue Lingyi is pleased that the child will bring success to his name, and everyone is happy about the new addition to the family.

Xue Waner suddenly discovers that the child is over a month old, suspecting that it might be Zhao Yan's. She realizes that Xue Lingyi has deceived her. Under the cover of night, she secretly takes the child away. Xue Lingyi, aware that her sister knows the truth, falsely claims that Xue Waner has been involved with another man. Rong Xiu, hearing this, is determined not to make any mistakes when recording his son in the family genealogy. Xue Waner faces criticism from the villagers and is sentenced to drowning. Xue Lingyi and Rong Xiu successfully include the child in the Rong family records.

While submerged in the lake, Xue Waner suddenly sees Zhao Yan. A month later, Xue Waner and Xue Lingyi meet again.

As everyone watches the wedding, only the bride stands alone without the groom, making her appear pitiful. Xue Lingyi also feels uneasy in the Rong family and is often teased by his sister-in-law. Rong Xiu wants to curry favor with the lady of the palace, making Xue Lingyi angry, wanting to intervene. Rong Xiu is hit by the bride with a purse, feeling the pain, but he doesn't understand why and can only greet her with a smile.

A month ago, after Xue Waner was rescued from drowning by the palace, she learned that the palace's daughter had died by jumping into the river due to pressure from the powerful. The palace's old lady alternates between madness and clarity, constantly calling for her daughter. Xue Waner, knowing that the palace's daughter is also called Waner, finds it quite coincidental. After seeing the Rong family forcing the palace's old man, she decides to help him and wants to marry into the Rong family. Upon hearing about Zhao Yan, Xue Lingyi also gets involved and decides to investigate the situation at the Rong family.

Xue Waner designs a plan to secretly lure Xue Lingyi out and let him know her true identity. Xue Lingyi, seeing that Xue Waner is not dead, is afraid. She is afraid that Xue Waner wants to take away the child and is even more afraid that the position of the Rong family's matriarch is getting farther away from her. Everything she planned is on the verge of failure, and she might face imprisonment and lose her life. Xue Lingyi is threatened by Xue Waner but can only reluctantly agree.

The maidservant feels that if Xue Waner becomes the lady of the palace, even if she manages to reclaim her child, she cannot truly become the child's mother. She suggests that Xue Waner should think it over. Xue Waner believes that things are often difficult to balance, but this time, she insists on having it all—protecting the palace, reclaiming her child, and not letting Xue Lingyi off the hook. When Xue Waner learns that Xue Lingyi has ulterior motives concerning her, she becomes even more determined not to let him go. She plans to use schemes to bring her child back.

During the wedding, Xue Waner suddenly recalls the first time she met Zhao Yan and the scene of her marriage to him. She becomes momentarily lost in thought. The nanny notices that the bride is not quite right and quietly reminds her, bringing Xue Waner back to the present.

Rong Xiu wants to curry favor with the newly arrived aunt, and Xue Lingyi, knowing the new aunt is Xue Waner, stops Rong Xiu from meeting her. Rong Xiu is shocked to find out that the new aunt is Xue Waner and learns about Xue Lingyi forcing her to marry him. Xue Lingyi also falsely claims that Xue Waner is involved with someone else, making Rong Xiu believe that Xue Lingyi is a cunning woman.

Xue Waner pretends to be aggrieved, appearing pitiable, and Rong Xiu can't help but feel a twinge of pity. Xue Waner tells Rong Xiu that she wants to stay by her child's side legitimately. Rong Xiu suggests having their child admitted to the general's residence, intending to help Xue Waner while also attempting to deceive Xue Lingyi.

The Rong family is very extensive, with a total of six branches. The eldest branch, the third branch, and the fourth branch reside in the Rong mansion, while the others have their own residences outside. The matriarch of the Rong family attributes today's reunion to the good fortune brought by Gong Waner. Xue Waner skillfully expresses gratitude to the matriarch while exchanging flirtatious glances with Rong Xiu. Xue Lingyi, witnessing the interaction between Rong Xiu and Xue Waner, becomes angry, especially upon hearing that Xue Waner plans to have the eldest grandson adopted into the general's family. It angers her even more that Rong Xiu and Xue Waner are plotting without informing her.

The Rong matriarch wants to say that Gong Waner is new to the mansion and doesn't understand things, but Gong Waner seizes the opportunity to explain that precisely because she is new and has no existing affiliations, she is competent for the position. The elders of the Rong family decide to entrust matters to Gong Waner. Rong Xiu is somewhat distrustful of Gong Waner, and Xue Lingyi sees Gong Waner pretending to be innocent, shifting all blame onto herself, and gaining Rong Xiu's favor. This angers Xue Lingyi, but she is left speechless.

Gong Waner continues to win people's hearts, temporarily gaining the cooperation of several senior ladies in the branches. However, a conflict arises between the senior ladies of the third and fourth branches over possessions, provoking the matriarch's anger. Xue Lingyi, seeing Gong Waner's schemes succeeding, feels pleased. The Rong matriarch believes that Gong Waner must still be calculating something, as otherwise, the branches wouldn't have fought so disgracefully. Gong Waner, however, pretends to be oblivious and innocent. The Rong matriarch thinks she may have misunderstood Gong Waner.

Rong Xiu is anxious about the outcome, whether his child can be included in the general's family genealogy. If successful, it would bring some honor to him. Seeing his wife calmly calculating, he can't help but feel anxious and wants to lose his temper. Xue Lingyi, though she also wants to know the result, pretends to remain calm.

At this moment, Lv Zhu comes to request an audience, informing Rong Xiu that the old lady has summoned him to the ancestral hall. Xue Lingyi thinks about bringing the child up herself to have control over Gong Waner. When she hears that the old lady didn't summon her, she feels dissatisfied, suspecting that Gong Waner is up to something. Gong Waner knows Rong Xiu's thoughts and intentionally provokes him to make him agree to return the child. Faced with no other option, Rong Xiu complies. In front of the old lady, Gong Waner suggests that Rong Xiu observe a mourning period for the general for three years before deciding whether to pass on the position. Rong Xiu, hearing this, feels trapped but has no choice but to comply.

Xue Lingyi wants to retrieve the child, but Gong Waner, in front of the old lady, states that since Rong Xiu has agreed to send the child to her, his wife's behavior is improper, making Rong Xiu seem weak. The old lady agrees with Gong Waner's decision. Rong Xiu, frustrated by Xue Lingyi's constant complaints and accusations, loses his temper, pushing her onto the table and leaving angrily. Xue Lingyi adjusts her hair, determined not to let Gong Waner off the hook and wanting her to experience the challenges of being the matriarch of the Rong family.

The main and third branches are discussing the fact that the old lady gave a rare bracelet to Gong Waner, expressing jealousy. They complain that now, as the general's wife, Gong Waner gets to choose everything first. Xue Lingyi's maid, Chunyu, leads the two ladies to Xue Lingyi, who intentionally mentions having delicate porcelain and fears it might break if touched, then slips away quietly.

Lv Zhu, accompanied by some servants, arrives to move the household items. However, the main branch lady interprets it as an attempt to snatch things away from her, oblivious to the trap set by Xue Lingyi. Lv Zhu, unaware of Xue Lingyi's scheming to disrupt the relationship between her mistress and these family members, is unjustly slapped in the face. Gong Waner, witnessing her maid's red face from the slap, feels extreme pity. When the main branch lady tries to leave in haste, Gong Waner stops her. Lv Zhu informs Gong Waner that this is probably Xue Lingyi's doing, aiming to create discord among them. Gong Waner takes the affected person directly to confront the old lady.

However, the old lady dismisses it as a minor issue, thinking Gong Waner is making too much fuss. Gong Waner insists, threatening to escalate the matter to the palace, potentially affecting the emperor's view of the Rong mansion. Reluctantly, the Rong old lady has to take disciplinary action against those involved, but Gong Waner still feels that the old lady's handling is somewhat inappropriate.

Gong Waner compassionately asks Lv Zhu if her face still hurts. However, Lv Zhu is concerned that the main branch lady is still kneeling and fears it might harm their mistress. Gong Waner reassures Lv Zhu that the main branch lady was only punished for an hour and has already returned. Gong Waner is deeply moved that her mistress went to such lengths to protect her small maid, even against the hostility of the main branch lady. She believes that they should not back down in such a large and complex household, or else the wrongdoers will take advantage of their timidity.

A nearby maid informs Gong Waner that the soup she's drinking was sent by the main branch lady. Gong Waner carries the soup to the main branch lady to confront her, stating that she did not frame the general's wife. Just as Gong Waner is about to leave, the main branch lady's maid arrives in a panic, alarming Gong Waner. She senses that something is amiss, suspecting that she might have fallen into someone else's scheme. Xue Lingyi, on the side, manipulates the old lady, urging her to punish Gong Waner. The old lady, believing Gong Waner to be malicious, decides to have her locked up.

Gong Waner, aware that Xue Lingyi is scheming against her, orders someone to bring Rong Xiu in front of her. She effortlessly addresses him as her son and instructs him to kneel in the old lady's room until she forgives him. Rong Xiu appears embarrassed but dares not say anything.

In the deepening night, Rong Xiu vaguely sees someone standing by his bed, and his drowsiness dissipates. Initially, he thinks it's a ghost, but to his surprise, it's the General's wife, his aunt Gong Waner's maid, who has replaced his own attendants. Rong Xiu hears Gong Waner ordering him to get up and go to the old lady's room to kneel until she forgives Gong Waner. Determined to successfully inherit the position of the general, Rong Xiu decides to play the filial son to the end.

Xue Lingyi wakes up in the morning and sees her husband kneeling outside, feeling a bit annoyed. Rong Xiu earnestly informs his wife that he will kneel until the old lady forgives Gong Waner. Although Xue Lingyi can't say anything aloud, she feels like she has hit her own foot with a stone. Rong Xiu believes that, for the sake of his title, he must play the role of a filial son. Xue Lingyi hesitates, as she also desires the position of the general's wife. Rong Xiu persists in his daily ritual of kneeling.

Upon seeing Rong Xiu enduring this self-mockery, Rong's old lady becomes angrier, convinced that she will never forgive Gong Waner. When Rong Xiu comes to see Gong Waner, he learns that Gong Waner's recent troubles were caused by Xue Lingyi. Furious, he returns home to confront his wife, accusing her of being a poisonous woman. Xue Lingyi, witnessing Rong Xiu hitting her, feels deeply hurt. Rong Xiu pledges to Gong Waner that he won't let Xue Lingyi harm her again.

Xue Lingyi saw the first and third ladies acting aggressively in front of her, making fun of her, unable to resist mocking them. She even wanted to involve Gong Waner in these conflicts. Xue Lingyi told the ladies present that Gong Waner was not as innocent as they imagined, suggesting that she might have lost her chastity and was no longer a pure maiden. When she saw that no one dared to speak up, she seized the opportunity to add fuel to the fire, mentioning how Gong Yeye initially hesitated to let his daughter marry into the Rong household, but she willingly agreed to marry in, finding it too coincidental.

The ladies hurriedly conveyed the hearsay to the old lady, hoping to use her to verify whether Gong Waner was truly chaste. To save face for the family, the old lady decided to bring in a maid from the Gong family to personally inspect the daughters-in-law. Upon learning the old lady's intention, Gong Waner decided to investigate the identity of the maid.

Rong Xiu, upon learning about the impending virginity examination for Gong Waner, rushed to the scene. Xue Lingyi quickly led the old lady to the scene to prevent her husband from interfering. Gong Waner, knowing the old lady's determination, began the examination. Xue Lingyi suggested that the old lady should supervise the entire process to avoid any mistakes. The old lady agreed to Xue Lingyi's proposal and decided to enter the room to oversee Gong Waner's virginity examination.

Upon hearing Xue Lingyi's suggestion, Madam Rong decided to oversee Gong Waner's virginity examination. The maid explained that if sparks flew from the charcoal basin, it indicated that Gong Waner was impure; otherwise, if there were no sparks, it meant she was innocent. Gong Waner remained composed, showing no signs of panic. Xue Lingyi, waiting anxiously, felt that something was amiss. Worried about a potential mishap, she was relieved when Madam Rong finally emerged to publicly declare that General's wife, Gong Waner, was indeed a virgin. Rong Xiu, upon hearing the result, felt a sense of joy, finally putting his concerns to rest. However, Xue Lingyi found the result inconsistent with her expectations, convinced that Gong Waner had lost her innocence somewhere along the way.

Seeing Xue Lingyi grinding her teeth in frustration, Gong Waner deliberately taunted her, and Xue Lingyi had no choice but to suppress her anger. Curious about how Gong Waner turned the situation around, Green Bamboo asked for details. Gong Waner revealed that she had intimidated the maid, who reluctantly agreed to help her.

In exchange for benefits, Gong Waner persuaded the maid to follow her plan. Together, they deceived Madam Rong. Madam Rong introduced Gong Waner to various high-ranking officials, leaving Xue Lingyi frustrated. Gong Waner noticed Rong Xiu holding her handkerchief and instructed him to throw it away, revealing that she had poisoned it. She discreetly informed Green Bamboo about what to do.

Green Bamboo sensed a peculiar smell in the courtyard and approached Cui'er to sniff it. She found a distinctive scent on Cui'er but noticed that Cui'er dared not speak. Gong Waner, hearing Green Bamboo's comment about a strange smell on Cui'er, became convinced that Rong Xiu was behind it. Gong Waner decided to exploit the situation with Cui'er to counteract Xue Lingyi's schemes. She mocked Xue Lingyi for her dubious methods, warning her sister to be cautious. Xue Lingyi paid no attention to Gong Waner's words.

During Old Mrs. Rong's banquet, Gong Waner lured others to find Rong Xiu, leaving Xue Lingyi embarrassed by her husband's absence. While Xue Lingyi went to look for her husband, Gong Waner encouraged everyone to witness the spectacle. Cui'er sought a proper status from Rong Xiu, and Xue Lingyi, discovering her husband's infidelity, felt angry but refrained from acting out at such a grand occasion. Cui'er and Xue Lingyi ended up fighting, causing both to be injured and losing face.

As the commotion attracted a crowd, they arrived at the scene of the fight. Madam Rong was furious witnessing such a scene. Gong Waner secretly sent Cui'er away from the palace. Xue Lingyi knelt before Madam Rong, and Gong Waner, fueling the fire, made Xue Lingyi realize her sister's malicious intent. Madam Rong believed Xue Lingyi harbored strong jealousy, and Gong Waner resurrected past grievances, leaving Xue Lingyi in extreme fear.

Old Mrs. Rong asked Xue Lingyi about the whereabouts of Rong Xiu's former concubine, Xue Waner. Xue Lingyi nervously claimed that Xue Waner had already passed away. This revelation angered Old Mrs. Rong, who hadn't expected Xue Lingyi, seemingly gentle on the surface, to be as ruthless as a scorpion inside. Learning that Xue Lingyi couldn't bear children and refused to let her grandson take concubines, Old Mrs. Rong doubted her sincerity. Xue Lingyi tearfully pleaded with Old Mrs. Rong, insisting that it wasn't her fault, but Old Mrs. Rong remained unconvinced. Gong Waner exchanged a triumphant glance with Xue Lingyi, revealing her satisfaction. Gong Waner suggested to Old Mrs. Rong that Xue Lingyi's cruel nature made her unfit for such responsibilities, proposing that they choose a concubine from Old Mrs. Rong's family for Rong Xiu. Old Mrs. Rong introduced her niece, Wu Yueyun, to Rong Xiu.

Despite feeling uncomfortable, Xue Lingyi had no choice but to endure the situation. Rong Xiu, eager to please Wu Yueyun, learned that the Empress intended to bestow a residence upon her. Xue Lingyi, watching from a distance, couldn't help but grit her teeth in frustration. Unable to restrain herself, she approached with flowers for Wu Yueyun but staged a scenario where she pretended to be injured. However, Wu Yueyun retaliated, and Xue Lingyi, for the first time, felt defeated.

Rong Xiu, witnessing the situation, pretended to sympathize but eventually left. Xue Lingyi overheard a secret discussion between Gong Waner and Wu Yueyun, informing Rong Xiu about it. However, Rong Xiu refused to believe Xue Lingyi's words.

Xue Lingyi noticed the maids preparing to serve wine to Wu Yueyun. She instructed the maid Chunyu to check the wine and subtly tampered with it. Gong Waner, observing from behind, saw Xue Lingyi's actions. Aware of Gong Waner's presence, Xue Lingyi deliberately let her believe that she was tampering with the drinks. She took satisfaction in the thought that if Rong Xiu discovered Wu Yueyun and Gong Waner deceiving her, he would not spare them. During the meal, Rong Xiu asked Wu Yueyun about her life in the mansion, and she shyly replied that it was good. Meanwhile, the maids took the opportunity to switch the wine, and Gong Waner assisted Wu Yueyun.

Xue Lingyi, Rong Xiu, and Gong Waner had already consumed the wine. Wu Yueyun hesitated, and Xue Lingyi, sensing her suspicion, intentionally provoked her. Faced with Xue Lingyi's aggressive demeanor, Wu Yueyun drank the wine without hesitation. Gong Waner persuaded Rong Xiu to drink as well. Xue Lingyi, feeling the situation turning against her, quietly left. Inside, Rong Xiu and Wu Yueyun remained, and Xue Lingyi, seeing her husband with Wu Yueyun, grew angry. Old Mrs. Rong also entered, branding Xue Lingyi as a malicious woman for using such ruthless methods. Rong Xiu, convinced of Xue Lingyi's dark intentions, joined in the accusations.

Feeling the weight of everyone's complaints, Xue Lingyi erupted but was knocked down by Rong Xiu. Her position was now precarious, and she believed that Gong Waner orchestrated everything. However, no one believed her. Hearing that Old Mrs. Rong intended to discipline Xue Lingyi, she finally felt a sense of fear.

Xue Lingyi has been imprisoned, and she is unwilling to accept her current situation. With the walls closing in, Xue Lingyi realizes that the tide has turned against her, and no one cares about her feelings. Even the servants, swayed by the prevailing atmosphere, ignore her. When Gong Waner visits Xue Lingyi, she angrily slaps her, blaming Xue Lingyi for provoking her and threatening her not to reveal the truth. Gong Waner believes that her current predicament is a result of Xue Lingyi's actions. However, she insists she has done nothing wrong and only seeks justice and fairness. Gong Waner is determined to expose the truth to the world, ensuring that Xue Lingyi stays alive.

Before leaving, Gong Waner tells Xue Lingyi that her past trust in her sister was not based on deception but on the genuinely good person Xue Lingyi used to be during their childhood. Gong Waner is conflicted about whether to hate Xue Lingyi or not, having achieved justice but feeling a lack of fulfillment. Seeing the dish of eel sauce on the table reminds her of her husband. Although Gong Waner is sure that her husband is alive, the realization brings sadness. Despite their love, they cannot be together or even acknowledge each other.

Back at the mansion, Gong Waner is still restless. Zhao Yan finds her and shares his own experiences. Gong Waner understands the hardships Zhao Yan has faced. He informs Gong Waner that he knows she is in the Rong mansion and proposes leaving together. However, Gong Waner believes that the matter is not yet resolved, and she cannot leave just like that.

While Gong Waner is in conversation with Zhao Yan, Old Mrs. Rong hurries to see Gong Waner upon hearing the servant's report. Gong Waner repeatedly refuses to open the door, but Old Mrs. Rong deduces that someone must be hiding inside her room based on the servant's information. Due to family reputation, Old Mrs. Rong warns Gong Waner without taking further action. After hearing Gong Waner's words, Zhao Yan returns home to wait for her. Green Bamboo hastily prepares luggage for Gong Waner, hoping she will leave. Although Gong Waner wants to leave, she doesn't want others to lose their lives because of her.

Old Mrs. Rong watches Gong Waner leave and instructs her subordinates to kill her. Unable to resist her emotions, Gong Waner cries when she sees Zhao Yan. The two lovers are finally together. At that moment, Old Mrs. Rong arrives at the scene, but Gong Waner and Zhao Yan are still chatting, oblivious to anyone approaching. Old Mrs. Rong forcefully enters just as the servants realize that Zhao Yan is Rong Yan. Gong Waner is stunned. Seeing Rong Yan's return, Old Mrs. Rong gains confidence, believing that the general's return will bring prosperity to the Rong family, making everything else insignificant. People hearing about the general's return rush to the ancestral hall.

Rong Xiu quickly calls Rong Yan "father," but Old Mrs. Rong is somewhat displeased with Rong Xiu's behavior. Gong Waner doesn't understand why Rong Yan went to great lengths to take her away but hasn't actively returned to the Rong family. Rong Yan feels that he doesn't want to see anyone here and takes away his mother's belongings.

Old Mrs. Rong sees her grandson wanting to leave and quickly steps forward to intercept. She has her own motives, wanting the Rong family to rely on her grandson to restore its former glory. Zhao Yan understands his grandmother's intentions. He wants to leave this troublesome place with Gong Waner (Xue Waner). Old Mrs. Rong earnestly tries to persuade Zhao Yan, but he finds his grandmother's demeanor disgusting. He directly exposes the truth, telling everyone that they forced him to leave earlier, and now it's impossible for him to come back. Seeing no other option, Old Mrs. Rong uses Gong Waner as leverage, insisting that Gong Waner stay. Zhao Yan, understanding Gong Waner's intentions, agrees to stay to protect her. Old Mrs. Rong is pleased to see her plan succeed.

Rong Xiu arranges to meet Gong Waner privately. He is afraid that his actions will be exposed. Gong Waner avoids Rong Xiu's attempts to find her. Seeing Gong Waner and Rong Xiu in a struggle, Zhao Yan intervenes, and Rong Xiu escapes with some concealment. Zhao Yan senses that Gong Waner is hiding something from him. Gong Waner believes it's not the right time to tell Zhao Yan everything. Zhao Yan instructs someone to investigate past events involving Gong Waner, suspecting a connection to the real Gong Waner and wanting to uncover the hidden truth. Gong Waner consistently denies her true identity. Despite Zhao Yan emphasizing the consequences of Gong Waner's actions, he tells her to stay put to ensure their safety. Gong Waner doubts Zhao Yan's identity and doesn't take his words to heart.

Gong Waner informs the Rong patriarch about the situation between her and Xue Lingyi. The real Gong Waner expresses affection for Zhao Yan, but he finds it repulsive. Gong Waner, however, believes it's time to reclaim everything that belongs to her.

Lu Zhu felt that Xue Waner should explain to Rong Yan to avoid any misunderstandings. However, Xue Waner believed that after all they had been through, she and Rong Yan should be able to be open with each other. Lu Zhu thought that Rong Yan had deep feelings for Xue Waner, and even without evidence, he would still trust her. Just then, Rong Yan arrived and saw Xue Waner in the house, which made him temper his anger. When he saw Xue Waner preparing a meal and taking care of him, Rong Yan was instantly delighted.

Xue Waner noticed that there was lipstick marks from another woman on Rong Yan's body, which made her feel uncomfortable, but she didn't say anything. At that moment, Rong Xiu entered the room, and when Rong Yan saw that Xue Waner intended to go out with Rong Xiu, he became very angry and stopped her. Xue Waner knew that Rong Xiu must have something important to discuss with her, so she insisted on going out, which made Rong Yan even angrier. Rong Xiu told Xue Waner to bring the child along with her, and Xue Waner was surprised to realize that she hadn't taken the child with her. Xue Waner suspected that Gong Waner had not really died, and Gong's father wanted her to leave, thinking that she was being too greedy. Xue Waner was deeply hurt because she had considered Gong's parents as her own, but they were now causing her so much pain.

Xue Waner remained steadfast and refused to comply when Gong's father used the child to blackmail her. Gong Waner pretended to be sick to deceive the guards and get a chance to see Rong Yan. Seeing her plan succeed, she felt quite pleased.

Xue Waner led Rong Lao Tai Tai to the desolate wilderness. Rong Lao Tai Tai found it a bit strange and asked Xue Waner what she wanted to do. Xue Waner smiled and told Rong Lao Tai Tai that she would find out in a moment. Gong Waner was delighted to see Rong Yan approaching. Rong Yan, seeing Gong Waner well, realized he had been deceived. Gong Waner felt that Rong Yan cared about her.

Rong Yan, seeing Xue Waner bringing the old lady, became very flustered. When he heard Xue Waner say that Gong Waner would be his concubine, he felt outraged and solemnly denied it. Gong Waner tried to threaten Rong Yan, but he clearly wasn't fooled. He believed that, no matter how big a mistake Xue Waner had made, he could protect her. However, Rong Lao Tai Tai thought that Xue Waner was considerate. When Rong Yan publicly declared that he had only one wife in his life, Gong Waner became furious and threatened Xue Waner. At this moment, Lady Gong arrived, not recognizing Gong Waner as her daughter, and identified Xue Waner. Gong Waner was forced to go back home.

Rong Lao Tai Tai, crafty and cunning, actually knew that Xue Waner was not the real Gong Waner. Xue Waner was grateful in her heart to Lady Gong. Rong Yan confessed to Xue Waner and told her that he had no one else. He knew that Xue Waner was hiding something from him, but seeing that she was unwilling to say, he no longer forced her. However, Xue Waner had decided to tell Rong Yan everything. After learning the truth, Rong Yan was very angry. Xue Waner advised Rong Yan to think about the child, as rumors could be harmful to Yuge'er. She suggested gathering evidence and letting the palace handle their judgment.

Rong Yan, suppressing his anger, called Rong Xiu in front of him, threatening him. Rong Xiu, feeling frightened, suddenly felt that something was not right and realized that Rong Yan already knew something.

Rong Xiu had a dream where Xue Waner, accompanied by Rong Yan, came to settle scores with him. Rong Yan, without mercy, held a sword to him, threatening to kill him. Suddenly waking up, Rong Xiu found Xue Lingyi's maid seeking help. Rong Xiu believed that Xue Lingyi was responsible for his predicament, feeling displeased but also considering that she might assist him. He decided to visit her.

Upon seeing Rong Xiu seeking help, Xue Lingyi hoped he would aid her escape. Rong Xiu demanded that Xue Lingyi sign a confession, promising assistance in return. Xue Lingyi perceived Rong Xiu's selfishness, completely disregarding his own life.

Despite Rong Xiu's attempt to force Xue Lingyi to sign the confession, she took advantage of the moment to poke Rong Xiu in the eyes and tried to escape. Rong Xiu ordered his men to capture her, willingly presenting her to Rong Yan. Others found it unbelievable—Xue Lingyi's malicious intentions, using pregnancy and then aiming for total annihilation. Rong Lao Tai Tai, witnessing the event, felt that Xue Lingyi was beyond redemption. She never expected someone she once highly regarded to be so cruel and disrespectful to the reputation of the Rong family.

Rong Xiu intended to hand over Yuge'er to Xue Waner and divorce Xue Lingyi. With her mouth sealed, Xue Lingyi could only cry in silent agony. Xue Waner finally fulfilled her wish, feeling excited that she could now be with her child openly and rightfully.

At the birthday celebration of Rong Lao Tai Tai, everyone praised the beautiful dress she wore. Rong Lao Tai Tai happily told everyone that it was personally made for her by General's wife. Outsiders envied Rong Lao Tai Tai for having such a good granddaughter-in-law. Xue Waner was busy preparing for the birthday feast, and Lü Zhu was also joyfully occupied. Suddenly, she noticed a familiar figure, and a masked person quietly took away the child. Xue Waner, upon hearing this, became very anxious.

Xue Lingyi proudly held the child in her arms, acting crazily. Rong Lao Tai Tai also arrived, wanting to silence Xue Lingyi. The onlookers found the scandal in the Rong family quite entertaining.

Xue Lingyi, holding the child, showed no regard for Xue Waner and Rong Lao Tai Tai's dignity. She even asked Xue Waner to reveal the relationship with the child. Seeing Xue Waner about to disclose the truth, Rong Xiu felt that Xue Lingyi was going to drag him down with her. He tried to intervene, but Xue Lingyi kept people away. She believed that she had devoted herself to the Rong family but was discarded because she no longer served any purpose. She wanted to expose the dark secrets hidden within the luxurious mansion.

Taking advantage of the situation, Rong Xiu sweet-talked and approached Xue Lingyi. When she wasn't paying attention, he killed her. After the truth came out, Rong Lao Tai Tai ordered that Xue Waner be locked in the woodshed for further punishment. Rong Xiu tightly held onto the child, refusing to give the child to Xue Waner.

The neighbors all know that the Rong family has just married a new bride, who is the general's wife, and that they have had a child together. Some even say that Xue Waner, the mistress of the house, has married three times, which is quite shameless. People are saying that only the stone lions in front of the Rong family's gate are clean, while the rest are dark. Women like Xue Waner should be drowned in a pig cage or beaten to death with a stick; otherwise, they will harm many people.

In front of the elders, Xue Waner explains how she was harmed and falsely accused. Rong Xiu, upon hearing Xue Waner accusing him, panics and denies it. Rong Madam does not want to hear Rong Xiu speak. Xue Waner wants Madam to handle the matter fairly, but Rong Xiu's father thinks his son is innocent and asks Rong Xiu to explain. Before leaving, Rong Xiu glares fiercely at Xue Waner. Seeing Rong's father covering up for Rong Xiu without distinguishing right from wrong, Xue Waner realizes that she needs to be dealt with for this matter to be resolved.

Xue Waner sees that the Rong family wants her dead, but Rong Madam wants her to bear the consequences for the family's honor. Rong Madam wants Rong Yan to stay in the palace for three days, and they take the opportunity to quietly deal with Xue Waner. Green Bamboo comes to see Xue Waner, who wants Green Bamboo to seek help from the palace for the sake of her child. The palace lady wants to see Xue Waner, and she is saved. Only then does Xue Waner leave the Rong family with the intention of ending her life. She plans to poison herself in the pastries, but she knows that if she doesn't eat them, she won't wait for Rong Yan to come back.

Old Mrs. Rong and Mr. Rong waited outside the door, suddenly hearing a scream from inside. Old Mrs. Rong anxiously asked what happened to Xue Waner and hurriedly went to check. Mr. Rong, however, smiled triumphantly, entering the room to frame and blame Lady Gong, alleging that she had poisoned Xue Waner. Lady Gong pretended to be angry and insisted on taking Xue Waner away. The Rong family, feeling wronged, had no choice but to agree.

Gong Waner, hiding behind, saw Xue Waner being carried away and asked the servants what had happened. Hearing that Xue Waner had died, she found it hard to believe. When Xue Waner saw Lü Zhu, she felt that all her injuries were worth it, as long as she could save her life and reunite with Rong Yan and Yuge. Lady Gong, hearing that Rong Yan was left in the palace, advised Xue Waner to go to her maternal home to hide, and they could think of a way to bring Yuge back after Rong Yan returned. Lady Gong assured Xue Waner that the Rong family wouldn't harm a child. As Xue Waner was about to leave, Rong Xiu and his men arrived. Lady Gong was angry that Gong Waner had exposed Xue Waner's whereabouts. Just as Rong Xiu was about to act, Rong Yan arrived and saved Xue Waner.

Seeing Rong Yan, Rong Xiu became afraid. He quickly used Yuge as a threat against Rong Yan, and Rong Yan promised to spare Rong Xiu's life. Rong Yan rushed back to the Rong house and found the child had been taken to the residence of the Imperial Consort. Xue Waner and Rong Yan met with the Imperial Consort, who showed displeasure towards Xue Waner. Rong Yan used the Emperor's authority to threaten the Imperial Consort, who wanted to silence Xue Waner. However, Xue Waner wanted to tell the Imperial Consort about the injustice she had suffered.

Xue Waner wanted to plead her case to the Imperial Consort, and in front of everyone, the Imperial Consort couldn't outright refuse. She had to let Xue Waner state her grievances. As the crowd listened to Xue Waner's plea, they found it strange and didn't even know what she looked like. Xue Waner told the Imperial Consort that she had been harmed by Xue Lingyi. Back home, she was mistreated and forced to separate from Zhao Yan, a hunter, because she married someone without power or influence. Her family wanted to kill her because she brought shame to the clan by marrying a powerless man. A year ago, Rong Xiu and Xue Lingyi tried to kill Xue Waner. Xue Lingyi, aware that his sister was carrying Zhao Yan's child, deceived Rong Xiu into thinking that she was pregnant with the Rong family's child. For his own selfish gain, Xue Lingyi even allowed Rong Xiu, his husband, to assault Xue Waner. She gave birth to the child and drowned it in the river. Now, people, without distinguishing right from wrong, spread rumors and gossip about Xue Waner, subjecting her to public humiliation. They want to protect Rong Xiu, and they intend to execute Xue Waner.

The Imperial Consort found the situation complex and, wanting to protect the Rong family, quickly claimed there were no witnesses. Xue Waner brought forth witnesses, and the Imperial Consort proposed separating the military order from the Rong family and allowing Xue Waner's family to reunite. However, Xue Waner disagreed with the Imperial Consort's approach, wanting to prove her innocence. The Imperial Consort, seeing that many noblewomen and officials were involved, reluctantly agreed and promised to personally place a hairpin on Xue Waner when the truth was revealed.

OLd Mrs. Rong couldn't bear this blow and fainted. Rong Xiu couldn't accept the truth that Yuge was not his child and went mad. Old Mrs. Rong transferred Yuge to Xue Waner's name, expressing gratitude and entrusting matters to her before departing. Rong Yan and Xue Waner's family of three lived happily. Xue Waner experienced bouts of vomiting, and Rong Xiu suspected she might be pregnant.

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